A Day at Ajax Downs

Thanksgiving Monday at Ajax Downs delivered everything that makes Quarter Horse racing so special; heart, horsepower, and a whole lot of speed. CQHA was thrilled to be on-site for the day, streaming live from the track, sharing moments from the barns, and catching up with the people who keep this sport alive.

From the paddock to the rail, the excitement was nonstop. Quarter Horses may not race as far as the Thoroughbreds, but what they deliver in those few seconds is pure electricity. Blink, and you’ll miss it… but the sound, the power, and the energy stay with you long after the gates open.

Throughout the day, CQHA’s 1st Vice President Laurie Haughton spent time behind the scenes speaking with owners, trainers, and breeders about the current state of the industry and what the future holds. The conversations were real, balancing the challenges of rising costs and short seasons with the pride of producing homegrown Canadian horses who can hold their own anywhere. Across the barns, trainers cooling out their horses, breeders talking about next year’s crosses, and owners celebrating hard-earned wins all echoed the same feeling; this is an industry built on grit, passion, and belief. Belief in the horses, in the people, and in what comes next.

Bob Broadstock, AQHA Director for Ontario, President of the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario Inc. (QROOI), and a trainer-owner himself, also shared his perspective on where the sport is headed. Between saddling his own runners, Bob spoke about the importance of continued funding and recognition for Quarter Horse racing in Canada, and how collaboration across organizations helps strengthen opportunities for breeders, owners, and riders nationwide.

Behind the barns, Hillerin Farms, owned by Bryn and Carol Robertson, opened their doors to show what race-day prep really looks like. It’s controlled chaos — wraps, tack checks, quick decisions, and deep focus. With three horses entered in the same race, the team moved like clockwork, each person knowing their role and every detail timed to perfection.

CQHA extends a heartfelt thank-you to the Quarter Racing Owners of Ontario Inc. (QROOI) for their hospitality and for inviting CQHA to share in the excitement of the day. Their continued support of Canadian-bred horses, investment in grassroots programs, and commitment to growing the sport make days like this possible.

The feature event of the afternoon was the 52nd running of the Alex Picov Memorial Championship, one of the most prestigious races on the Canadian Quarter Horse calendar. The field was stacked with top contenders, including the legendary Had to Be Ivory — the richest Ontario-bred Quarter Horse in history. At ten years old, he showed once again why he’s a fan favourite, breaking clean and holding strong all the way to the wire. His half-brother Had to Be Relentless finished second, and full sister Had to Be Ivy took fifth — all bred at the Robertson family’s farm in Erin, Ontario. That kind of consistency is rare and speaks volumes about Canadian breeding and the dedication behind it.

After the race, CQHA proudly presented the 2024 Canadian-Bred and/or Owned Horse of the Year buckle to Had to Be Ivory. It was a special moment for the Robertson family and for everyone who’s followed this remarkable horse’s career.

The day was more than just racing; it was a celebration of community. Fans lined the rail, kids waved from the fence, and everyone there felt that same thrill when the gates flew open and the dirt started to fly.

You can watch highlights and replay the livestream on our CQHA Instagram page. 

For more information on Quarter Horse Racing in Ontario please go to: https://qrooi.com/